PUNCHINELLO'S

BEST FOR Glamorous dining. FOOD Located at the palatial Venetian-inspired Southern Sun Montecasino hotel, this is a ritzy restaurant that impresses with its lavishness. Smoked meats from the in-house smoker come highly recommended. Try a scrumptious pork Kassler loin and pulled pork croquette served with apple mousse, roasted garlic, mashed potato and pork jus. The top-quality Karan beef sirloin, grilled and served with saffron potato fondant, carrot lasagne, chestnut purée and beef reduction is a good choice, too. End with the apple-and-blueberry pie, served with mascarpone ice cream, crème anglaise and almond brittle. Sunday lunches see a buffet on offer. DRINKS The wine list boasts coveted auction wines from the prestigious Nedbank Cape Winemaker’s Guild and Nederburg Auctions. SERVICE Professional and prompt. AMBIENCE This is a glamorous venue with South African prints and paintings on the walls. The well-run open kitchen provides atmosphere. Families and businesspeople alike will feel comfortable dining here. (TN)